I think some of the negativity is not negativity, but rather some very direct questions to help the OP refine his thought process. Sometimes people think they want something and a couple of pointed questions will either reinforce their thinking or cause them to say "what was I thinking".

The point about the OPs roads suddenly getting better might be construed as snarky, but it actually should cause him to think. The presentation might have been a little abrasive, but the point is roads are roads and no matter what bike you are riding the roads are the same.

If the roads are really that bad, the OP might want to consider either 26" or 650c wheels. A good way to go and somewhat cheap would be to buy an older mountain bike off of Craigslist and convert it to SS. You can find nice CR-MO framed mountain bikes that are decent candidates for conversion for as little as $50.00, especially right now.

Another option would be to try Ebay or Bikes Direct and just get a cheap FG/SS and ride it until you decide whether you like it or not and then either sell it and upgrade or keep it as a beater/bad weather bike.

Lots of options. Personally, I would keep your 12 speed a 12 speed. I think you'd end up spending more money converting it than it would ultimately be worth. I'd go the Bikes Direct route before that. Saw some decent ones on there the other day for around $275.00. Not bad for entry level.